Malusi Gigaba: How resigning as an MP helped him dodge an inquiry

It may be a case of goodbye and good riddance, but Malusi Gigaba has stepped down as a minister in the name of self-preservation.

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA – MARCH 12: Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba answers questions during his appearance before the parliamentary hearing into state capture on March 12, 2018 in Cape Town, South Africa. Gigaba distanced himself from business dealings between the Gupta family and state-owned enterprises during his tenure as public enterprises minister. (Photo by Gallo Images / Sowetan / Esa Alexander)

Malusi Gigaba completed his spectacular fall from grace on Thursday, resigning as a Member of Parliament just two days after he quit as home affairs minister.

Gigaba kept his goodbyes short and sweet, contributing a brief farewell to the ANC press communication that confirmed his departure.

“It was indeed my honour and privilege to serve our people in this High Office. I’m also grateful my organisation afforded me this honour.”

Malusi Gigaba worms his way out of Parliamentary trouble

Jackson Mthembu thanked his comrade for always putting the people of South Africa and the party first. Make of that what you will. However, if you were thinking that Gigaba’s latest resignation was an act of altruistic sacrifice solely so the ANC can move on, you’d perhaps be mistaken.

On Wednesday morning, Gigaba was referred to the Parliamentary Ethics Committee for “the alleged violation of the Constitution, the Executive Ethics Code, the Code of Ethical Conduct”. Because the public protector upheld claims that MG lied in court, he would have had no choice but to face further disciplinary action.

However, the committee only hears cases against MPs. With Malusi deciding to throw in the towel, he can no longer be taken to task by the government for his actions.

#Gigaba The ethics committee can only recommend sanction against an MP – which essentially renders the referrals of no effect. LD

Does Gigaba have to go to court?

This does not excuse him from his other legal obligations, though. Not only is he being pursued on perjury charges by none other than John Steenhuisen, but The DA is also pursuing Gigaba’s “unconstitutional appointment” as home affairs minister for the second time.

Steenhuisen has an axe to grind with MG’s legacy within the department: He points to the visa regulations implemented by his administration, which were blamed for “killing” the jobs market.